Taking the Lead from God

So many can relate to the Book of Nehemiah because we all face projects of overwhelming proportions today. The obstacles are all too familiar – limited resources, disengaged team members, ruthless competition, naysayers.

We had a major insight during one discussion – Nehemiah experienced the same feelings of anger and frustration that you and I experience from time to time when things go wrong. But he didn’t act on those feelings. Instead, he went to God in prayer – sometimes long prayer and other times emergency prayers – and sought God’s will. God gave him the words to say and the steps to take. Then Nehemiah followed God’s lead. The results were nothing short of miraculous!

It’s in our nature to take matters into our own hands, particularly when something needs fixing. Each of us (myself included) need to be reminded to hit the pause button and go to God first. It’s the best investment of time you could ever make.

Over the next month, we challenge you to be intentional about praying first – before you start the day, before each meeting, before responding to each problem, before acting on your feelings. Then say and do what God speaks to your heart and watch what happens!

Catherine Gates is Senior Director of Content & Partnerships for Workmatters. She oversees the development, distribution and support of Workmatters content to equip marketplace leaders to live out their faith at work. She also builds partnerships with clients and other marketplace ministries. Catherine has a broad range of experience in technology, sales, training, public speaking and curriculum development. She’s passionate about her faith and helping people tap into more of God’s best for their lives while bringing God glory.